Police impose 18-hour movement restriction as security agencies intensify preparations for Saturday’s governorship poll.
The Nigeria Police Force has reiterated its ban on the participation of the Amotekun Corps and other non-state security groups in security operations for Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.
The Force also announced a movement restriction across the state from midnight on Friday, August 14, to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly election.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Anietie Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.
The police said only security agencies established under the Constitution and laws of Nigeria were authorised to perform security and law-enforcement duties during the election.
It warned vigilante groups, non-state security organisations and other unauthorised bodies against participating in election-related security operations or performing the functions of recognised security agencies.
The Force said such groups must stay away from election duties and refrain from activities capable of intimidating voters, disrupting the electoral process or threatening public peace.
It urged residents to comply with the movement restriction and cooperate with security personnel deployed across the state, noting that only specifically exempted persons and categories of movement would be permitted.
The police also advised political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the election.
The Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting voters, maintaining public order and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors and eligible voters.
It urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding and report suspicious or unlawful activities to constitutionally recognised security agencies.